7 Proven Tips for Safe Long-Distance Driving for Lorry Drivers

by TheLorry on 12 August 2025.

Driving long distances as a lorry driver isn’t just about getting from point A to point B—it’s about arriving safely, on time, and in good health. In Malaysia, with its busy highways and unpredictable traffic, long-haul journeys can test even the most experienced drivers. Whether you’re delivering goods to Johor Bahru, making a trip to Penang, or even crossing into Singapore, following safety best practices will make all the difference.

Below, we’ll explore seven proven safety tips tailored for lorry drivers so you can travel smarter, safer, and stress-free.

1. Get enough rest prior to the trip

Fatigue is one of the leading causes of accidents among truck and lorry drivers. Ensure you get a full night’s rest before a long trip—avoid late nights or last-minute packing. Prepare your route, check your lorry’s condition, and settle all logistics at least a day in advance so you can rest easy.

💡 Consider using TheLorry’s On-Demand Lori Sewa service if you ever feel too tired to drive—you can let another professional handle the trip.

2. Let go of your expectations…about other drivers

Getting angry at other drivers for infractions real or imagined is counter-productive. Stop expecting other people to follow the rules – anticipate situations where people run stop signs or traffic lights for instance.

Being overemotional on the road will just stress you and it could even affect the quality of your own driving.

📍 Related Reading: 4 Safety Tips When You Encounter Heavy Vehicles on the Road

3. Take it easy on the caffeine and sugar, eat healthy instead

While it’s convenient and tempting to just eat fast food on the road or load up on candy, it could be very detrimental. A sugar crash could leave you unable to focus on the road and fast food is the equivalent of putting poor quality unrefined fuel into your car.

Think healthier alternatives: sandwiches, for instance, are easy to make and pack and fruit is a better choice of snack than M&MS or chips.

4. Take scheduled breaks

Resist the urge to drive long stretches at a time without adequate rest, just to try and make good time. The best thing is to do is schedule your breaks, setting alarms if necessary.

Anytime you feel tired, however, you should take a break as soon as you can – even if it’s not the scheduled time.

🚛 Quick Tip: Even if your scheduled break hasn’t arrived, stop immediately if you feel drowsy—your safety comes first.

5. Don’t be afraid to nap

Take short, 20-minute naps to keep you refreshed. They’re just long enough to help stave off sleepiness on the road, while not being too long that you feel lethargic.

Make sure you choose a safe place to stop, such as designated rest stops.

6. Be wary of emergency lanes

Unfortunately, there are Malaysians who deliberately misuse the emergency lane – either using them to try to get ahead or to go the wrong way (particularly common with motorcycles). If you do stop in an emergency lane, be on the alert for rogue emergency lane abusers.

7. Have emergency resources at hand

Make sure you have the numbers of emergency services, and toll helplines. Have jumper cables, battery water, as well as a car jack (if possible) ready to lessen the time needed to get your car going in case of the usual car issues.

To summarise, be aware of your surroundings and take care of yourself. Take your time and, as the saying goes, enjoy the ride.

If you are not a lorry driver, here’s how you should drive around heavy vehicles.

Best Rest Stops and R&R Areas for Lorry Drivers in Malaysia

Malaysia’s highways are dotted with R&R (Rest and Recreation) areas designed to help drivers recharge during long journeys. For lorry drivers, choosing the right stop can make a big difference in safety and comfort.

Some of the most lorry-friendly rest stops include:

• R&R Rawang (PLUS Highway) – Convenient for northbound and southbound routes with ample parking for heavy vehicles.

• R&R Tapah (North-South Expressway) – Known for spacious truck bays and a variety of food options, perfect for a meal break.

• R&R Pagoh – Strategically located for those heading south, with clean restrooms and shaded parking.

• R&R Bukit Gantang – A good midway point for drivers heading north, offering plenty of space for large trucks.

💡 Plan your breaks in advance using PLUS Malaysia’s official app so you can avoid overcrowded rest stops during peak hours.

Driving Safe in Malaysia’s Rainy Season: Tips for Lorry Drivers

Malaysia’s tropical climate means heavy downpours can happen at any time, especially during the monsoon seasons (November–March and May–September). For lorry drivers, wet roads bring added risks.

Safety tips for driving in heavy rain:

1. Reduce speed to maintain traction and prevent hydroplaning.

2. Increase following distance—braking takes longer on wet roads.

3. Use headlights for better visibility to other road users.

4. Avoid sudden lane changes, which can cause skidding.

5. Check wipers and tyres before every long trip to ensure they’re rain-ready.

📍 Remember: If rain becomes too heavy to see clearly, pull over at a safe R&R or lay-by until it eases.

Essential Highway Rules Every Malaysian Lorry Driver Should Know

Navigating Malaysia’s highways requires more than just knowing the speed limit—it’s about following regulations designed for heavy vehicles.

Key highway rules for lorry drivers:

• Stick to the left lane unless overtaking—this reduces congestion and improves safety.

• Adhere to heavy vehicle speed limits (usually 80–90 km/h, depending on the zone).

• Observe load restrictions to avoid fines and ensure vehicle stability.

• Avoid using the emergency lane unless there’s a genuine breakdown.

• Follow toll lane signage—use dedicated lanes for commercial vehicles when available.

🚛 Knowing and following these rules not only keeps you compliant but also builds trust with clients who value professional and responsible drivers.

Need Reliable Transport? Drive Safe with TheLorry

Whether you’re moving a household, delivering goods to clients, or sending cargo across borders, TheLorry is your trusted partner on the road. We understand that safety isn’t just about driving safe—it’s about planning your journey, protecting your cargo, and ensuring on-time delivery without compromise.

From House Moving Packages that give you peace of mind during big transitions to Cross-Border Transport for seamless shipping to Singapore and beyond, we handle the heavy lifting while you focus on what matters most.

Our professional drivers are trained in defensive driving and long-distance safety protocols, so whether it’s a rainy day in Johor or heavy traffic on the PLUS Highway, you can trust us to get your goods there safely and securely.

💬 Have a question or need a custom delivery plan?

👉 Chat with us on WhatsApp — we’re ready to assist you anytime.

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